Nigerian Man on the Run Over Drug Case Rearrested in Thailand

Thai law enforcement officials have arrested a Nigerian national who allegedly absconded while facing trial over drug trafficking offences in the southern part of the country.

The suspect, identified as Ukoma Jefta Nuzbech, was taken into custody on January 14 in the Koh Pha Ngan area following intelligence reports that revealed his location. Authorities said he had been evading the law after failing to appear in court over an earlier drug-related charge.

Nuzbech was initially apprehended in March 2025 after he was accused of selling about 25.7 grams of cocaine to an undercover police operative. He was later granted bail pending trial but reportedly skipped court proceedings and went underground.

Investigators allege that instead of complying with bail conditions, the suspect continued engaging in drug distribution activities across parts of Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan while in hiding.

During the latest operation, police intercepted a vehicle in which Nuzbech was travelling. Officers said he resisted arrest, forcing them to gain access to the car. A search of the vehicle reportedly led to the recovery of suspected cocaine weighing about 1.18 grams, a mobile phone, and cash amounting to 50,280 Thai baht.

Preliminary findings from the phone allegedly revealed conversations linked to drug transactions, including messages suggesting collaboration with a 29-year-old Thai woman whose bank account QR code was reportedly used to receive payments.

Thai authorities say the suspect now faces charges related to possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute. If convicted, he could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison and fined as much as one million baht.

Police have also confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify other individuals who may be connected to the alleged drug network.

The arrest adds to a growing list of cases involving foreign nationals, including Nigerians, apprehended in Thailand over drug-related offences. In late 2025, Thai police arrested another Nigerian national in Phuket for allegedly selling drugs within the premises of a hospital parking area.